Join us this summer for our Live From the Loading Dock – Parkside concert series. There is something for everyone this summer with the acts lined up. The concerts will be free to and open to anyone in Newport County. While food will be provided, guests are encouraged to bring their own blankets and lawn chairs. Performances will take place in the Pocket Park across from the Edward Street entrances to the MLK Community Center. In the event of inclement weather, the concerts will take place inside the Center.
The dates and acts are as follows:
June 18, 2025 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.: Chelley Knight and the Dope Things
July 23, 2025 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.: The Ravers
August 20, 2025 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.: Los Inocentes Del Rancho
September 24, 2025 5:30 p.m. – 6:15 p.m.: Toe Jam Puppet Band
About the acts:
Chelley Knight and the Dope Things:
Chelley Knight is a local Newport vocalist known for her incredible range and scat solos. Chelley Knight and the Dope Things also features Chris Vaillancourt on guitar, Brendan Keogh on bass, Tim Lee on drums, John Gillespie on piano, and Chase Ceglie on saxophone. Inspired by jazz and blues, they perform soulful music and are a Newport favorite.
The Ravers:
The Ravers have been a Newport stable for 27 years and counting. In 1988, the reggae band started among a group of friends. While the band members are highly trained musicians, performing and teaching in esteemed locations like Roomful of Blues and Berklee College of Music, they continue to perform in Newport because of widespread community love and support.
Los Inocentes Del Rancho:
Based out of Boston, Los Inocentes Del Rancho is a popular Sierreño band whose music is a mix of traditional Mexican music like mariachi and norteño with modern influences like reggaeton.
Toe Jam Puppet Band:
Beloved children’s entertainers, The Toe Jam Puppet Band are based out of New Bedford. Their music appeals to both kids and their parents, using musing and puppets to tell stories.
See you there!